Algarve, Portugal 10-Day Trip Itinerary

Depart Groningen

Begin your exciting campervan road trip from Groningen, heading south-west towards Normandy, France.

Ensure your camper is fully stocked and ready for the journey. Plan for regular stops.

This is a long driving day. Have snacks, drinks, and entertainment for your 13-year-old. Plan stops every 2-3 hours for stretching, dog walks, and meals.

Roadside Lunch Break

Stop at a suitable rest area or small town for a packed lunch or a quick bite from a local bakery.

Many rest areas have dog-walking zones. Look for 'aires de repos' along French motorways.

Arrive near Bayeux & Settle

Reach the Normandy region and find your pre-booked campervan park or campsite near Bayeux or Caen.

Ensure your campsite is dog-friendly and has the necessary facilities for your campervan. December can be chilly, so ensure good heating.

Dinner at Campsite

Enjoy a cozy dinner in your campervan after a long day of travel.

Prepare a warm meal and relax. The 13-year-old can help with cooking or cleanup.

Omaha Beach & Memorial

Visit the solemn and historically significant Omaha Beach, one of the main D-Day landing sites.

Walk along the sand and reflect on the events of June 6, 1944. Explore the memorial.

Dress warmly as it can be windy and cold by the coast in December. Dogs are generally allowed on the beach in winter.

Normandy American Cemetery

Pay respects at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, located overlooking Omaha Beach.

The rows of white crosses are a powerful and moving sight.

Dogs are not allowed inside the visitor center or the cemetery grounds, but there is parking nearby and designated areas. Plan for one adult to wait with the dog if visiting inside.

Lunch in Arromanches

Drive to Arromanches-les-Bains and have lunch.

This charming coastal town is famous for the remnants of the Mulberry Harbour.

Several cafes and restaurants are open, offering local seafood. Look for dog-friendly outdoor seating if available.

Arromanches 360 Circular Cinema

Experience the immersive 360-degree film 'The 100 Days of Normandy' which provides a powerful historical overview of the D-Day landings.

A powerful experience for all ages, offering great context for the historical sites visited. Check for opening hours in December. Dogs are not allowed inside.

Return to Campsite & Relax

Head back to your campervan park.

Enjoy an evening of relaxation after a day filled with history.

Spend quality time together, perhaps playing board games or watching a movie.

Drive to Mont Saint-Michel

Embark on a scenic drive to the iconic Mont Saint-Michel.

Park your campervan in the designated visitor parking area.

There's a large car park (paid) for visitors, including spaces for campervans. Free shuttles connect the car park to the mount itself, or you can walk the causeway (approx. 45 minutes).

Explore the Village & Ramparts

Walk through the medieval streets and ramparts of Mont Saint-Michel.

Enjoy the unique atmosphere and stunning views.

Dogs on a leash are generally allowed in the village streets and on the ramparts, but not inside the Abbey itself or shops/restaurants. Be prepared for crowds, even in December.

Visit Mont Saint-Michel Abbey

Ascend to the top of the mount to explore the magnificent Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture and views.

Dogs are not permitted inside the Abbey. One adult will need to wait with the dog while the other visits with the 13-year-old, or plan for separate visits. Booking tickets online is highly recommended to save time.

Late Lunch & Souvenirs

Grab a late lunch at one of the village's eateries, or enjoy a picnic outside if weather permits.

Browse for unique souvenirs.

Try the famous 'Mère Poulard' omelette if you're feeling indulgent, though there are more budget-friendly options. Be mindful of dog access.

Campsite near Mont Saint-Michel

Settle into a campervan park located near Mont Saint-Michel for the night.

Several campsites are available in the surrounding area, offering shuttle services or walking access to the mount.

Drive to Saint-Malo

Take a short scenic drive along the coast to the historic walled city of Saint-Malo in Brittany.

Enjoy the coastal views as you approach this impressive fortress city.

Walk the Saint-Malo Ramparts

Stroll along the ancient ramparts of Saint-Malo, offering panoramic views of the city, the sea, and the surrounding islands.

Dogs on a leash are welcome on the ramparts. This is a great activity for the whole family, including your dog. Dress warmly as it can be breezy.

Explore Intra-Muros

Wander through the narrow, cobbled streets of the 'intra-muros' (inside the walls) old town, discovering charming shops and historical buildings.

Many shops may not allow dogs, but you can take turns browsing while one person waits outside with the dog.

Lunch in Saint-Malo

Enjoy a traditional Breton crêpe or galette for lunch.

Saint-Malo is famous for its culinary delights.

Look for a crêperie with outdoor seating, as many in France are dog-friendly.

Beach Walk at Plage du Sillon

Take a refreshing walk on the vast sandy beach of Plage du Sillon, just outside the city walls.

Great for the dog to run around.

One of France's most beautiful beaches, perfect for a bracing winter walk. Dogs are usually allowed on beaches during off-season.

Begin Drive South through Brittany

Start your journey further south through Brittany, positioning yourself for a full day of travel towards Spain tomorrow.

Find a suitable campervan park en route.

Aim for a town like Vannes or Nantes region, or simply a convenient overnight stop.

Depart Southern Brittany

Continue your southward journey, traversing through France towards the Spanish border.

This will be a significant travel day.

Prepare for a full day of driving. Have a good playlist, audiobooks, or podcasts ready. Keep snacks and drinks accessible.

Picnic Lunch Stop

Stop at a charming roadside picnic area or a small village to enjoy a packed lunch amidst the French countryside.

Stretch your legs and let your dog have a good run. Utilize the camper's kitchen for a fresh meal.

Continue Drive towards Bordeaux/Basque Country

Proceed with your drive, aiming to get as close as possible to the Spanish border or into the Basque region for the next segment of your trip.

Break up the drive with short stops. Consider a coffee break in a small town.

Overnight Stop in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Find a campervan park in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, ideally closer to the Spanish border, for your overnight stay.

Rest up for the next leg of your journey into Spain. Look for parks that are open year-round.

Dinner & Planning for Spain

Have dinner in your campervan and perhaps start planning for your entry into Spain and the exploration of the Basque Country.

Enjoy a relaxed evening. Check maps and information for Bilbao and the next leg of the journey.

Scenic Drive South

Begin your journey from the Mont Saint-Michel area, heading south through the picturesque French Atlantic coast.

Enjoy the evolving landscapes from your camper.

Allow for comfort breaks for yourself, your son, and your dog along the way.

Lunch & Coastal Walk

Stop for lunch in the charming Basque coastal town of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, just before the Spanish border.

Take a stroll along the beach or harbor with your dog.

Many restaurants in town offer outdoor seating, which might be dog-friendly. The main beach is lovely for a walk.

Zumaia Flysch Cliffs

Cross into Spain and head to Zumaia to explore the incredible 'Flysch' geological formations on the beach.

These unique rock layers offer a fascinating natural spectacle and a great photo opportunity.

Check tide times before visiting; the full extent of the Flysch is best seen at low tide. This is a fantastic spot for a dog walk.

Settle into Camper Park

Arrive at a pre-booked camper park or designated overnight spot near Getaria or San Sebastián for the night.

Vizcaya Bridge Visit

Head to Portugalete to see the Vizcaya Bridge (Puente Colgante), a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site and the world's first transporter bridge.

You can take the gondola across or walk the upper platform for incredible views.

Dogs are generally allowed on the lower gondola. The upper walkway might not be suitable for dogs or those with a fear of heights. A great experience for a 13-year-old.

Basque Pintxos Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Basque pintxos lunch in a local eatery in Portugalete or a nearby coastal town.

Discover the variety of small, flavorful bites the region is famous for.

Look for establishments with outdoor seating to accommodate your dog. It's a great way to experience local cuisine.

Drive to Cantabria

Continue your drive westwards along the beautiful Cantabrian coast.

The scenery is rugged and stunning, offering plenty of viewpoints.

Enjoy the coastal views and make brief stops as desired.

Overnight in Cantabria

Settle into a camper park for the night, perhaps near Santillana del Mar or another charming Cantabrian village.

Drive Across Spain

Embark on a significant driving day, traversing the diverse landscapes of central Spain.

Enjoy the changing scenery from your camper.

Ensure you have plenty of snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the journey. Frequent stops for the dog are essential.

Picnic Lunch Break

Find a scenic rest stop or a small village park for a relaxing picnic lunch.

Let your dog stretch its legs in a safe area.

This is a good opportunity to use your camper's facilities and enjoy the outdoors.

Continue to Portugal Border

Continue your drive, aiming to reach a camper park close to the Spanish-Portuguese border by late afternoon.

You will transition into the Europe/Lisbon timezone upon entering Portugal.

Camper Park Near Border

Settle into a camper park near the border or just inside Portugal for the night, preparing for your final stretch to the Algarve.

Final Drive to Algarve

Enjoy the final leg of your journey, driving through the charming Portuguese landscapes down to the sunny Algarve region.

Anticipation builds as you get closer to your Christmas destination!

Praia da Rocha Beach Walk

Arrive in the Algarve and head straight to Praia da Rocha in Portimão for a refreshing walk on its expansive sandy beach.

Admire the stunning cliffs and rock formations.

A great dog-friendly spot to stretch your legs after the drive. Many beachside cafes are around, some with outdoor seating.

Settle into Algarve Camper Park

Check into your chosen camper park in the Algarve, giving you plenty of time to set up and relax before Christmas Eve festivities.

Book your Christmas Eve camper spot well in advance as this is a popular time.

Festive Camper Dinner

Prepare and enjoy a special Christmas Eve dinner in your camper.

Embrace the cozy atmosphere and celebrate your arrival in the Algarve.

Stock up on supplies earlier in the day as many shops may close early on Christmas Eve.

Christmas Morning Beach Walk

Start your Christmas Day with a refreshing and peaceful walk along one of the Algarve's stunning dog-friendly beaches, such as Praia do Alemão or Praia da Dona Ana.

Enjoy the tranquility.

Many beaches are less crowded on Christmas morning, offering a serene experience for your family and dog.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the Algarve, offering unparalleled views of the coastline and countryside.

This would be a truly memorable Christmas experience.

This activity is weather-dependent and highly recommended to book well in advance, especially for Christmas Day. Confirm dog policy if relevant.

Christmas Day Lunch

Enjoy a festive Christmas lunch.

You can either prepare a special meal in your camper, or if you prefer, research and book a local restaurant that is open and dog-friendly for a celebratory meal.

Many restaurants will be closed or require advance booking on Christmas Day. Planning ahead is crucial.

Afternoon Relaxation

Spend a relaxed Christmas afternoon at your camper park, playing games, reading, or simply enjoying the mild Algarve winter weather.

A perfect way to unwind after your long road trip and celebrate the holiday.